Wichita Standard

U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Jon Tester have introduced the Veterans Spinal Trauma Access to New Devices (STAND) Act, aimed at improving treatment for veterans with spinal cord injuries and disorders. The legislation requires the VA to offer annual preventative health evaluations to these veterans and increase assistive technologies to better serve their needs.

Senator Moran emphasized the importance of the legislation, stating, “Spinal cord injuries can be devastating, but by providing veterans with the right tools and treatments, we can help them regain mobility and hope through treatment and innovative technology.”

Senator Tester also highlighted the significance of the bill, stating, “Veterans with spinal cord injuries and disorders deserve health care that meets their individual needs. That starts with ensuring they have the prosthetic equipment and innovative assistive technologies they require.”

The legislation would create a preventative health program for veterans referred or treated by the VA for spinal cord injuries, allowing them to potentially receive treatments for chronic pain, diet management, risk of comorbidities, and assistance through prosthetic equipment. Additionally, the VA would be required to report to Congress on the number of veterans receiving care through assistive technologies to determine the evaluation of spinal cord injuries on a yearly basis.

Companion legislation has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Representative Jack Bergman.